The International Center for Refugee and Migration Studies (ICRMS) conducted two career counselling sessions at School No. 12 and School No. 22 in the Saranan Refugee Camp, continuing its outreach efforts to support refugee students in planning their educational and professional futures.
At School No. 12, the session began with Mr. Nisar Ahmed, Media and Communication Associate at ICRMS, who welcomed the students and introduced the Center’s mission and work. He shared that ICRMS was established in 2017 with support from UNHCR and is based at BUITEMS, one of Balochistan’s leading academic institutions. Nisar Ahmed also spoke about the strong partnership between BUITEMS and UNHCR, emphasizing the Center’s ongoing activities and the various learning and skill-building opportunities it offers refugee youth.
After the introduction, Mr. Abrar Khan took over and led an engaging and interactive discussion, starting with a simple yet important question: “What is a career?” He broke down the concept by linking it to students’ personal interests, strengths, and long-term goals. He then introduced various personality types and explained how understanding one’s traits can help in choosing a suitable career path. The session also included a self awareness activity where students wrote about their good and bad habits, their future aspirations, and how they plan to give back to their community. The activity sparked thoughtful responses, and Mr. Abrar khan provided one-on-one guidance based on the students’ inputs.
Mr. Nisar Ahmed wrapped up the session by addressing the challenges and uncertainties that refugee students often face when thinking about their future. He encouraged them to stay determined, make use of available resources, and continue striving for their goals.
At School No. 22, a girls’ school serving Afghan refugee students, the session was facilitated by Ms. Pashtana, an experienced career counsellor. She started by introducing ICRMS and its role in supporting refugee education. She then guided the students through an exploration of career concepts, using relatable examples and practical tips. Her focus was on helping young girls understand how to take the next steps in their education, especially through scholarships and online learning opportunities. The session also included interactive exercises to help students identify their interests and build confidence in their future plans.
Both sessions ended with a lively Q&A segment, where students asked thoughtful questions about potential career options and pathways forward.
A total of 60 male students attended the session at School No. 12, while 36 female students participated at School No. 22.
Lunch was served at the end of each session for all participants and facilitators, bringing the day to a warm and thoughtful close.
Reported by Muhammad Asif
Reporting Associate
